Edition notes: Modern edition based on both the manuscript and the performance practice according to the preface of Telemann's "Harmonischer Gottesdienst" and the performance in the YouTube video listed below.

Reduction of rights is necessary,
It is said,
For the sake of freedom,
To protect democracy
From itself.

Propaganda is necessary for clarification
About the evil plans of the enemy.
Surveillance is necessary for security
Because perils come, too, from inside.
Rearmament is for defense,
As the foe stands in front of the gates.

We thus must be silent
And grateful
That history
Does not repeat itself.
Not literally.